carly richardson.

My research focuses on the accessibility of astronomical knowledge in the early modern period through paper moveable instruments, namely volvelles.

I use Peter Apian's Cosmographia as a case study item. Particularly, a copy of this book that is held at the John Rylands Library. This copy includes handmade volvelles that were added by a previous owner.

I explore how learning through the tactile and visual senses allows Visual Thinking and Material Engagement and therefore a wider audience were able to utilise volvelles as a pedagogical tool.

Additionally, I explore how these volvelles are digitally represented in collections today. Is the interactivity of a volvelle shown in digital facsimiles of these book pages? My next project is working on a solution to this, to allow a remote audience to engage and interact with volvelles - as the volvelles were originally intended to be used.